“The bottom line is that 137 people needlessly risked their lives in ill-advised attempts to illegally enter our country,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris O’Neil, public affairs officer for the Coast Guard’s Seventh District. “We will continue to aggressively patrol the Florida Straits and other routes used by those who try to subvert the immigration process, to secure our borders, save lives and bring to justice those who engage in migrant smuggling or other criminal activity.”

Once onboard Coast Guard vessels, all migrants receive food, water and any necessary medical attention.